Blue Monday: How to get through the most depressing day of the year

Blue Monday, the 3^rd Monday of January, has officially been declared the most depressing day of the year back in 2005. It may have been a marketing stunt, but they do have a point: the holiday euphoria has worn off, it’s mostly dark, wet and cold outside, and most of us have probably thrown our New Year’s Resolutions overboard by now. Not to mention that we’re in the middle of a pandemic. More than enough reasons to feel a little down today.

But good news: there are lots of ways to turn Blue Monday around. You have the chance to make it a great day. And we have 5 handy tricks to help you make the best of the gloomiest day of the year.

Blue Monday: 5 tips to get you through the gloomiest day of the year

First things first: It’s up to you

Winter weather might not be the happiest, and you’re still restricted in what you can and can’t do at the moment. But the thing is: you decide how to react to these circumstances. Do you get up in the morning, expecting a shit day? You’ll spend all day unconsciously finding reasons to prove that thought. What a waste of energy and a potentially beautiful day! You have the choice to make today a good day. Are you ready? Read on for the next tips.

Go outside

Daylight really does wonders for your mood. The sky might be grey, but the sun is still strong enough to create all kinds of happy hormones in your body. Plus, the fresh air will give you a better (and healthier) boost than yet another cup of coffee. No chance to go outside? Make sure to open the window every once in a while, and let the natural light in as well.

Get moving

Our bodies are not made to sit still all day. Make sure to move your body: walking, running, biking, yoga. Any physical activity is good for you and give you a natural energy boost.

Be thankful

It’s no secret: gratitude is one of the best remedies for feeling low. It might seem difficult, especially if you haven’t been feeling well, but it’s worth a try. Look around and try to find 10 things in your life that you’re grateful for. Anything can go on that list, nothing is too small. Write them down as a reminder for later.

Connect

As we can’t be together as much as we’d like, Blue Monday might hit extra hard this year. It’s more important than ever to actively work against that feeling of loneliness. Text a friend, (video-)call someone to wish them a great day, or go outside for a covid-proof walk (and tick off number 2 and 3 as well, yeah!).

Blue Monday or not, you always have the choice to turn any day into something positive. Don’t let the negativity drag you along and take some action. Everything you need, you have within you. Turn this blue day into a great day.